When Should Pets Get Dental Care?

Caring for your pet’s teeth is just as important as regular checkups, vaccinations, and a healthy diet. Good dental care helps your furry friend live a longer, happier life—and prevents pain and serious health problems down the road.

Why Is Dental Care Important for Pets?

Dental health is a key part of your pet’s overall well-being. Dental problems can cause pain, infections, and even affect vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body123. The most common dental disease in pets is periodontal disease, which starts with plaque buildup and can progress to gum inflammation, tooth loss, and bad breath1243. By addressing dental care early, you can prevent most of these issues before they start125.

When Should Dental Care Begin?

Start dental care early—ideally when your pet is still young. For most cats and small-breed dogs, begin regular dental care around one year of age; for larger dogs, by age two16. Small breeds are especially at risk for dental problems due to crowded teeth, so they may need professional cleanings as early as six months old6. Introducing tooth brushing and oral care routines early makes it easier as your pet ages16.

Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care

Pets are experts at hiding pain, so dental problems can go unnoticed until they’re advanced7. Watch for these warning signs:

• Bad breath (not just “dog breath,” but an unusually strong or foul odor)173
• Yellow or brown teeth (tartar buildup)173
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums173
• Difficulty eating, chewing, or dropping food173
• Pawing at the mouth or face17
• Loose or missing teeth173
• Swelling around the mouth or jaw17

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental exam with your veterinarian right away. Dental problems can progress quickly and cause significant pain17.

How Often Should Pets Get Dental Exams?

Most pets should have their teeth and gums checked by a veterinarian at least once a year18. Some pets—especially small breeds, older animals (over 7 years), or those with a history of dental issues—may need exams more often16. Annual exams help catch problems early, and your vet may recommend dental X-rays to check for hidden issues below the gumline129.

What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?

A professional dental cleaning is similar to a human dental visit, but pets require anesthesia to keep them still and pain-free129. Here’s what to expect:

• Oral exam and dental X-rays to check teeth and jaw health129
• Scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline129
• Polishing to smooth teeth and prevent future plaque buildup129
• Extractions if teeth are too damaged or infected129
• Most pets go home the same day and recover quickly129

Anesthesia is very safe when performed by a trained veterinary team, and it allows for a thorough cleaning and exam—especially below the gumline, where most dental disease hides129.

Home Dental Care: What You Can Do

Taking care of your pet’s teeth at home is the best way to prevent dental disease between vet visits12410.

1. Brush Their Teeth

• Brushing is the gold standard for preventing plaque and tartar124.
• Aim for daily brushing, but even a few times a week helps124.
• Use pet-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and a pet toothbrush1210.
• Start slowly and reward your pet with praise or treats10.

2. Dental Chews and Toys

• Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar, especially those with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, which means they’re scientifically proven to work11.
• Chewing is helpful, but it’s not a substitute for brushing411.

3. Special Dental Diets

• Some pet foods are formulated to help clean teeth as your pet eats12.
• Ask your vet if a dental diet is right for your pet2.

4. Water Additives and Gels

• Products like chlorhexidine gels or water additives can help reduce bacteria and plaque10.
• Always check with your veterinarian before starting any new dental product1210.

Do All Pets Need the Same Dental Care?

Dental needs vary by species, breed, and individual pet:

• Small dogs are prone to crowded teeth and tartar buildup63.
• Large dogs may develop gum disease as they age6.
• Cats can suffer from unique dental problems like tooth resorption, which is painful and best caught early1.
• Pets with other health issues (like diabetes or kidney disease) especially need good dental care12.

The Bottom Line: Early and Ongoing Dental Care Is Best

Start dental care when your pet is young and keep up with regular annual exams186. Don’t ignore signs of mouth pain, bad breath, or changes in eating habits—these can signal dental disease173. Add home brushing, dental chews, or other approved products to your routine for the best results12411.

If you’re ever unsure about your pet’s dental needs, your veterinarian is your best resource. They can help you create a dental care plan that fits your pet’s unique needs129.

Did you know?

Some pet insurance plans now cover dental cleanings and treatments. Ask your vet or insurance provider for details4.

Action Steps for Pet Owners:

• Check your pet’s mouth regularly for signs of dental disease.
• Schedule annual dental exams with your veterinarian.
• Start brushing your pet’s teeth as early as possible.
• Use approved dental chews and diets as recommended.
• Contact your vet if you notice any changes in your pet’s breath, eating habits, or behavior.

Your pet’s smile is worth protecting—for their health, comfort, and happiness!

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How early should I start dental care for my pet to prevent serious issues?

You should start dental care for your pet as early as possible—ideally when they are a puppy or kitten, around 8 to 12 weeks old. Beginning dental care at this young age helps your pet get comfortable with having their mouth handled and teeth brushed, making it much easier to maintain good oral hygiene throughout their life2567912. Early introduction to brushing and dental routines not only helps prevent serious dental issues like periodontal disease, tooth loss, and painful infections, but also establishes lifelong habits that protect your pet’s overall health134679.

If your pet is already older and you haven’t started dental care yet, don’t worry—it’s never too late to begin. Establishing a routine with gentle, positive reinforcement can help pets of any age adapt to dental care5912.

Key steps for early dental care:

• Begin brushing your pet’s teeth with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste as soon as possible, ideally between 8 and 12 weeks old567.
• Schedule regular dental checkups with your veterinarian, starting when your pet is young, to catch any issues early and keep their mouth healthy24910.
• Use dental chews, toys, and special diets as recommended by your veterinarian to support oral health134.

By starting dental care early, you can prevent most serious dental problems and help your pet enjoy a healthier, happier life14679.

What are the key signs that indicate my pet needs urgent dental attention?

Key signs that your pet needs urgent dental attention include:

• Bad breath that is persistent or unusually foul, which often signals infection or dental disease1267.
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums, which can indicate gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease267.
• Difficulty eating, chewing, or dropping food, such as eating more slowly, favoring one side of the mouth, or refusing certain foods or treats267.
• Pawing at the mouth or face, or rubbing their face on objects, which suggests oral pain or discomfort267.
• Loose, broken, or missing teeth, which are signs of advanced dental disease or trauma267.
• Visible swelling around the mouth, jaw, or under the eyes, which may indicate an abscess or severe infection that needs immediate care267.
• Excessive drooling or saliva that is thicker than usual, sometimes tinged with blood57.
• Discolored or tartar-covered teeth, especially if you see brown or yellow buildup along the gumline27.
• Mouth ulcers or sores visible on the gums or tongue, which can be very painful and require prompt treatment15.
• Sudden changes in behavior, such as irritability, withdrawal, or aggression when touched near the mouth, which can be a response to pain267.
• Inability to use the mouth correctly, such as trouble opening or closing the mouth, which can signal joint, bone, or muscular problems or severe dental disease5.

If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Dental problems can worsen quickly and lead to severe pain, infection, or even systemic illness if left untreated267. Early intervention is key to relieving your pet’s discomfort and preventing more serious health issues.

How often should I schedule professional dental exams for my dog or cat?

Most dogs and cats should have a professional dental exam with their veterinarian at least once a year123456. This annual checkup helps catch dental problems early and keeps your pet’s mouth healthy. However, some pets may need dental exams more frequently—every six months or even more often—if they:

• Are older (senior pets, typically over 7 years)
• Are small breeds (which are prone to dental issues)
• Have a history of dental disease or oral health problems
• Eat mostly soft food or don’t get regular at-home dental care

Senior pets and those with known dental issues often benefit from exams every six months to monitor for changes and address problems before they become severe127. Your veterinarian can recommend the best schedule based on your pet’s age, breed, and individual health needs.

Regular at-home dental care, like brushing and dental chews, is also important, but it doesn’t replace professional exams and cleanings28. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on your pet’s dental care routine.

What procedures are involved in a veterinary dental cleaning under anesthesia?

A veterinary dental cleaning under anesthesia is a thorough, multi-step procedure designed to safely and effectively address your pet’s oral health. Here’s what’s typically involved:

• Pre-Anesthetic Evaluation: Before the procedure, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend bloodwork to check organ function and ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia136. This helps tailor the anesthetic plan to your pet’s individual needs.
• Anesthesia Administration: Your pet receives sedation and then general anesthesia, often through an intravenous (IV) catheter. This keeps your pet still, pain-free, and stress-free throughout the cleaning, and allows for continuous delivery of fluids and medications if needed1236.
• Airway Protection: An endotracheal tube is placed in your pet’s windpipe to maintain an open airway and prevent any water or debris from entering the lungs during the procedure35.
• Comprehensive Oral Exam: Once your pet is under anesthesia, the veterinarian performs a detailed examination of the teeth, gums, and oral tissues. Dental X-rays (radiographs) are often taken to detect problems below the gumline, such as tooth root infections or bone loss, that can’t be seen during an awake exam14568.
• Scaling and Tartar Removal: Specialized tools, including ultrasonic and hand scalers, are used to remove plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces—especially below the gumline, where most dental disease occurs45689.
• Polishing: After cleaning, the teeth are polished to smooth out microscopic scratches, making it harder for plaque to stick and reducing the risk of future buildup4568.
• Extractions or Additional Treatments: If any teeth are found to be severely diseased or damaged, extractions or other treatments may be performed as needed. The veterinarian will discuss these findings and recommendations with you458.
• Continuous Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, a dedicated veterinary technician closely monitors your pet’s vital signs—heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, temperature, and more—to ensure safety and respond immediately to any changes1267.
• Recovery: After the cleaning, your pet is monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. Comfort measures like warming blankets and pain control are provided, and most pets go home the same day, typically feeling back to normal within a day or two256.

This comprehensive approach ensures your pet’s dental cleaning is safe, thorough, and effective, addressing both visible and hidden dental problems for better long-term health.

Which home dental care products are most effective and safe for my pet?

The most effective and safe home dental care products for your pet are those that are scientifically proven to reduce plaque and tartar, are easy to use, and are well-tolerated by pets. Here’s a breakdown of top options:

1. Toothpaste and Toothbrushing

• Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste is VOHC-accepted and clinically proven to reduce plaque and control tartar. It’s safe for both dogs and cats and comes in multiple flavors to make brushing more appealing12.
• PetSmile Enzymatic Toothpaste is also recommended for its enzymatic action, which helps break down plaque even if your pet won’t tolerate full brushing—just rubbing it along the gumline can help2.
• Always use toothpaste made specifically for pets, as human toothpaste can be toxic to animals3.

2. Dental Chews and Treats

• Look for dental chews with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Seal of Acceptance, which means they have been independently tested and proven to reduce plaque and tartar4.
• Top VOHC-approved options include Greenies Dental Chews, Purina DentaLife, Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh, and Milk-Bone Brushing Chews45.
• Oravet Chews and Tartar Shield Soft Rawhide Chews are also highly recommended for their effectiveness in reducing plaque and tartar25.

3. Dental Wipes

• Healthy Mouth Antiplaque Wipes are a good alternative if your pet won’t tolerate brushing. They help remove biofilm and early plaque, though they don’t reach below the gumline as brushing does2.

4. Water Additives

• Vet Aquadent FR3SH has been shown in studies to significantly decrease plaque and calculus accumulation and improve gum health in dogs when used daily after professional cleaning6.
• Oxyfresh is another recommended water additive that reduces plaque adhesion and promotes gum health, suitable for multi-pet households5.
• Water additives are especially helpful for owners who find brushing challenging, but they work best when used alongside other dental care methods and after a professional cleaning65.

5. Oral Gels and Rinses

• Maxi/Guard Oral Cleansing Gel can be applied with a finger, gauze, or toothbrush to reduce plaque, gum inflammation, and mouth odor5.
• VOHC-approved oral gels and rinses for cats are also available, using enzymes to break down plaque and reduce bacteria—ideal for pets that resist brushing or treats7.

What to Avoid

• Never use products containing xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs3.
• Always choose products specifically formulated for pets.

Summary Table

Product Type	Examples/Brands	Key Benefits	VOHC-Approved?
Toothpaste	Petsmile, PetSmile Enzymatic	Reduces plaque/tartar, safe for pets	Yes (Petsmile)
Dental Chews/Treats	Greenies, DentaLife, Oravet, VeggieDent	Mechanical plaque removal, easy to use	Yes
Dental Wipes	Healthy Mouth Antiplaque Wipes	Removes surface plaque	No
Water Additives	Vet Aquadent FR3SH, Oxyfresh	Reduces plaque, easy for multi-pet homes	No
Oral Gels/Rinses	Maxi/Guard, VOHC-approved gels	Reduces bacteria/plaque, easy to apply	Some

For best results, combine daily toothbrushing with a VOHC-approved toothpaste, regular use of dental chews or treats, and, if needed, water additives or oral gels. Always consult your veterinarian before starting new dental products to ensure they’re appropriate for your pet’s specific needs214657.